Sudan Conflict Persists: RSF Claims New Gains In Darfur

The war in Sudan continues to intensify as the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) claims fresh territorial gains in the western region of Darfur, while the United Nations warns of mounting atrocities and an escalating famine crisis.

Now approaching its third year, the conflict between the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) has devastated large parts of the country, displacing millions and crippling essential services. The latest flashpoint is the city of El Fasher, long considered a strategic stronghold in North Darfur. After months of heavy fighting and siege conditions, RSF fighters have reportedly tightened their grip around key areas of the city and surrounding communities.

Human rights observers and UN investigators say the battle for El Fasher has been marked by grave abuses against civilians. A recent UN fact-finding mission described patterns of ethnically targeted attacks, unlawful killings, and widespread destruction of property, warning that some actions may bear the hallmarks of genocide. Civilians fleeing the violence have recounted attacks on residential neighborhoods and displacement camps, further compounding an already dire humanitarian emergency.

Beyond Darfur, clashes have spread into parts of Kordofan and other regions, disrupting agricultural production and blocking humanitarian corridors. Aid agencies report that insecurity and bureaucratic restrictions have severely limited access to vulnerable populations. The World Food Programme and other relief bodies have cautioned that famine conditions confirmed in parts of North Darfur could spread rapidly if fighting persists.

The humanitarian toll is staggering. Millions are internally displaced, while others have fled across borders into neighboring countries. Malnutrition rates among children have surged, and health facilities are overwhelmed or destroyed. UN officials warn that without urgent intervention, thousands could face life-threatening hunger in the coming months.

Regional instability is also growing. Chad recently tightened border security following reports of armed elements crossing into its territory, raising fears that the conflict could spill over and destabilize the wider Sahel region. Diplomatic efforts led by the African Union and the European Union have so far failed to secure a lasting ceasefire, though international pressure continues to mount for renewed negotiations.

Analysts say the conflict has evolved into a protracted power struggle with devastating humanitarian consequences. Both sides accuse each other of violating international law, and repeated ceasefire agreements have collapsed amid renewed hostilities.

As Sudan’s crisis deepens, the UN and humanitarian partners are urging an immediate cessation of hostilities, protection of civilians, and unrestricted access for aid deliveries. Without decisive action, observers warn, the combination of armed violence and widespread hunger could push the country further into catastrophe, leaving millions trapped in one of the world’s most severe humanitarian emergencies.